greece — wordtravelshttp://forum.wordtravels.com/
Fri, 09 Dec 2016 13:53:39 +0000greece — wordtravelsenWhich is the best Greek Island holiday destination (Greece)?http://forum.wordtravels.com/discussion/327/which-is-the-best-greek-island-holiday-destination-greece
Tue, 06 Jan 2009 18:43:23 +0000- Greece and Cyprusmathieu327@/discussionsGreek Island All-Inclusive with Swim up Pool Barhttp://forum.wordtravels.com/discussion/17111/greek-island-all-inclusive-with-swim-up-pool-bar
Thu, 25 Aug 2016 14:00:40 +0000- Greece and Cyprusgarethjolliffe17111@/discussionsBest holiday resort and Island to visit in Greece?http://forum.wordtravels.com/discussion/2103/best-holiday-resort-and-island-to-visit-in-greece
Wed, 30 Sep 2009 09:50:46 +0000- Greece and CyprusBenjiBob2103@/discussions
I'm planning a trip with my girlfriend to Greece and we're looking for the island and holiday resort that is best suited to our tastes. We're keen on somewhere with a mellow party atmosphere (ie. not a bunch of drunken 20-somethings stumbling about and throwing up in the streets) as well as somewhere really beautiful with outdoor activities like hiking and horse riding, etc. But that said, we don't want to be stuck with a bunch of geriatrics either. I think we've pretty much ruled out Kavos...

Can anyone recommend a good island for us, or even more specifically, a good resort?
I'd really appreciate it.
Thanks in advance - BB]]>
What is the Best Beach in Greece?http://forum.wordtravels.com/discussion/15227/what-is-the-best-beach-in-greece
Wed, 08 Apr 2015 11:31:35 +0000Europemonica3615227@/discussions so every one who knows something, i would be happy to tell me ]]>
Holiday suggestions for Greecehttp://forum.wordtravels.com/discussion/13138/holiday-suggestions-for-greece
Wed, 28 May 2014 16:04:46 +0000- Greece and CyprusTigertrackz13138@/discussions]]>
Greece to Ohridhttp://forum.wordtravels.com/discussion/15387/greece-to-ohrid
Fri, 17 Jul 2015 15:17:46 +0000- Greece and Cyprusgreeceohrid15387@/discussionsIs it cheaper to visit Greece now?http://forum.wordtravels.com/discussion/15374/is-it-cheaper-to-visit-greece-now
Wed, 08 Jul 2015 11:55:50 +0000- Greece and Cyprusgregxpert15374@/discussionsI am from the UK and have been thinking of going to Greece for a while now, especially to go around the Greek islands for a holiday. I am wondering if it will be cheaper to visit Greece now with the financial crisis going on or should I wait, because it might be even cheaper when they exit the EU.

Also, is it safe to visit Athens now with all the protests? And what will happen to the EU visa situation if Greece leaves the Euro?

Having just returned from a couple of weeks in Italy, I thought Id see how badly I had been ripped off at the airport when buying Euros.

I used the Travelex kiosk at Heathrow, but the exchange rates were similar to other foreign exchange companies - £100 bought around 1.10, but when selling Euros the rate was about 1.30. This spread is basically their profit margin  the publish exchange rate is currently 1.20  and this spread is much wider for less popular currencies such as Egyptian pounds, Thai Baht or South African Rands.

The guy at Travelex was kind enough to tell me give him cash rather than paying with my debit card  otherwise Lloyds bank would have charged another 3 percent on top. I was changing £300 into Euros, so I saved £9 simply by using the cash machine next to the kiosk. The Travelex fee was effectively £30, and I would have saved this if I had been prepared and shopped around before getting to the airport.

Lesson 1: Never exchange money at the airport  you are a captive customer at an airport or ferry terminal and pay for the convenience of exchanging cash there  to get the best exchange rates you simply need to book your currency online and either get it delivered or pick it up from a kiosk at the airport or at your bank, post office or other provider. The Travelex rate for pre-booked money is currently 1.18.

I have now been through my bank statement to see what rate I got at the cash machines in Italy  I have a Lloyds Mastercard, although I believe these rates are fairly typical. The exchange rate is not too bad  1.16, but the bank also charges a cash advance fee of £3.76  so on top of the 3-4% spread they made on the transaction they charged me the additional 3 percent fee. Apparently you can find these details in very small print on the bank charges paperwork.

Lesson 2: If you must use your card abroad, make sure you buy things directly with it; dont use cash machines.

Another little-known rip-off is this: when making big purchases in overseas shops, and sometimes when taking cash out of machines in the wall, you may be asked if youd like to pay in pounds or Euros. Usually the retailers exchange rate will be even worse than your own card.

Lesson 3: To get the best exchange rates, always reject offers to pay in the local currency with your debit or credit card.

Many companies are now offering travel currency cards  these are one of the best ways to exchange money at the best rates or take money abroad. They offer some of the best exchange rates and they dont add a cash advance fee or similar load which you can get on your standard credit or debit card and can be safer than cash. These cards shouldnt be used in the UK as interest rates are higher than on normal cards, and they generally also charge an extra fee for using cash machines - so use them for direct purchases where possible. As with all credit cards, you should set up a direct debit to pay off the card every month, but note that some cards charge an extortionate interest rate on cash withdrawals even if paid off in full at the end of the month.

Final advice on getting the best exchange rates and avoiding rip-off bank charges: either pre-book your currency at least 4 hours before you arrive at the airport, or if you travel regularly get a currency card.

The following reputable companies offer pre-booked currency which can be delivered to your door in the United Kingdom: Crown Currency Exchange, Tesco, The Post Office, Marks and Spencer and Travelex.

This is one of the most commonly asked travel questions, both on the Word Travels forum, and the Internet at large. Unfortunately, it is a question with a thousand possible answers, depending on:

What nationality are the passengers? Which countries are they visiting? Are they disembarking the cruise ship at the various ports of call? Or simply transiting through?

All these considerations must be taken into account. What follows, here, is a rough guide to making sure that  when planning your cruise vacation  you stay informed and on top of the visa requirements for your trip. It is vital to remember that cruise companies ultimately will not accept responsibility for ensuring that your travel documentation is in order  it is your responsibility to keep abreast of your own visa requirements.

Passport validity

Firstly, before the issue of visas is addressed, it is almost certain that you will need to be in possession of a valid passport in order to undertake your cruise. While historically it has been possible for some passengers (chiefly US or Canadian citizens) to undertake cruises with some other form of photo identity on them  increasingly, it is becoming mandatory for all cruise line passengers to carry a passport. Possessing a passport  that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of your scheduled return  is a fail-safe method of ensuring that you will always have legitimate, globally-accepted identification on you while you travel.

Planning far ahead

Moving on to visa matters, it is worth mentioning that it's probably a fortunate thing about most cruise trips, that they have to be booked long in advance. While the reason for this is of course due to limited space and availability, if you do have to do some leg-work in terms of organising visas, it is at least handy to be able to use this 'waiting period' to secure your travel documentation.

When booking your cruise, you will choose between a variety of itineraries offered by the cruise line company. This pre-determined itinerary will indicate exactly which countries you will visit on your cruise, and how long you will spend at each of the ports of call.

It is at this stage that you can begin to research the visa requirements for your trip. In fact, most reputable cruise companies will provide you with a letter detailing this information before finalising your booking  just remember to tell them the nationality of the passport you will be travelling on.

Specific visa requirements for cruise passengers

And this is where the question of specific visa requirements becomes a little tricky... By way of example, let's say two friends  one of whom holds a South African passport, the other an American passport  have booked a Mediterranean cruise, that will take them to Greece, Italy and Spain. The American traveller will not require a visa for this cruise, as they are allowed to spend up to three months in Schengen member states without a visa. The South African traveller, on the other hand, will have to secure a multiple-entry Schengen visa for the cruise, issued by the country in which they are due to spend the longest period of time.

However, now let's say the same two friends want to take another cruise, to Brazil. This time around, the South African traveller wouldn't require a visa for a stay of up to 90 days in the country; while the American traveller would have to secure a Brazilian tourist visa before leaving home.

A third example would see the two friends book a cruise to Syria. The travellers do their research, and discover that they both require visas to enter Syria  however, because the American friend has visited Israel in the past, and still has an Israeli tourist stamp in her passport, her visa application will be denied, while the South African's wouldn't.

Finally, it is also worth bearing in mind that some countries  such as Turkey  stipulate different visa rules for 'ordinary tourists' and cruise ship passengers. In the case of Turkey  provided that tourists enter and leave on the same ship  a 'blanket visa' will be issued to the cruise line, covering all passengers on board. In cases such as this, passengers will (ordinarily) not be allowed to spend the night off-ship, and may even be restricted to hanging around the port area.

Thus, with all the possible permutations involved, it is impossible to generate a definitive set of rules for visa requirements for cruise ship passengers. Rather, these requirements will vary according to the passenger's nationality and their itinerary.

Researching your visa requirements

The easiest way to conduct your research into the matter, of course  once you've decided on your itinerary  is simply to look up the countries you'll be visiting on the Word Travels website, and check the 'Visa and Passport' section of the respective country guides. There, you'll find accurate, up-to-date information informing you of your entry requirements.

Be wary of relying on so-called 'official websites', as often these can be out-of-date, or simply inaccurate.

Please remember that the process of applying for a visa  which, more often than not, will be done at the embassy of the country you intend on visiting, in your country of origin  can be lengthy. Ensure that you leave yourself plenty of time (at least two months) to get your documentation sorted out. It is also worth remembering that for the large majority of countries, you will be required to hold confirmation of your cruise booking  i.e. be required to show proof of onward or return travel  in order to be issued your visa.]]>
Which Greek Island?http://forum.wordtravels.com/discussion/8281/which-greek-island
Thu, 16 Feb 2012 17:37:24 +0000- Greece and Cyprusaewelch8281@/discussions
Me and my boyfriend are looking to go to one of the Greek Islands at the end of June/beginning of July and are unsure as to which one would suit us best.

We're both 18 and looking for somewhere with great sandy beaches and good nightlife. We hoping to avoid the usual football-shirt-wearing larger-lout territory, without losing out on the selection of bars and clubs. We were also looking for somewhere with day trips available - maybe boat trips, a water park... But we're not too interested in history or hiking.

Thanks in advance for any suggestions,
Amy
:)]]>
Travel to Greece in February?http://forum.wordtravels.com/discussion/7548/travel-to-greece-in-february
Wed, 24 Aug 2011 20:59:56 +0000- Greece and Cyprusheidiph7548@/discussionsIs Cyprus in the Schengen Zone?http://forum.wordtravels.com/discussion/14233/is-cyprus-in-the-schengen-zone
Tue, 07 Oct 2014 13:46:17 +0000- Greece and CyprusSlobaBGD14233@/discussions I would like to visit Greece and Cyprus, next year in the spring, and stay there as long as possible. Is Cyprus in Shengen zone? Greece is. I have serbian passport, and Serbia is on white list, that mean I can travel in Shengen zone max 90 days in period of 180 days. So, can I be in Cyprus about 2 month, then 2-3 more in Greece. This is 4-5 month in EU, but (maybe) not in Shengen zone? From Cyprus embassy in Belgrade, I receive something like, we are not in Shengen yet, you don't need a visa for Cyprus, but they can't answer me on the question, after 2 month in Ciprus, can I be in Greece 2-3 more months? THANKS]]>
Passport requirements for greece and cyprushttp://forum.wordtravels.com/discussion/6900/passport-requirements-for-greece-and-cyprus
Mon, 25 Apr 2011 00:46:32 +0000- Greece and Cypruskathandian6900@/discussionsSchengen Visa to Greece Trickhttp://forum.wordtravels.com/discussion/14051/schengen-visa-to-greece-trick
Sun, 14 Sep 2014 08:19:45 +0000EuropeNaderSl14051@/discussions

I met my girlfriend in a country outside Greece, so after that we fell in love i decided to civil marry her, the problem is that i don't live in the EU region and i've applied once for a Greek VISA but it got declined and that is because i didn't back it up with enough papers, neither mentioned the cause of visit.

It is very critical that i need to find another way to go to Greece, i thought of applying to Spain with all needed papers, but hopefully if they accept it, i've been told that i can directly fly to Greece without landing in Spain (just if i don't intend to go back to my country, since i have to go to it from Spain again).

However, even if that works, i am worrying about the duration to get a residence permit after that i apply for one, i don't intend to go back plus the duration of visit might be less than what a residence permit might take, so therefore i really need help for this as embassies here don't help with such an issue, is there a way to stay illeagle there until the residence permit has been dispatched? thanks in advance.

]]>
Why Greece is proud Country?http://forum.wordtravels.com/discussion/14003/why-greece-is-proud-country
Wed, 10 Sep 2014 19:07:51 +0000- Greece and Cyprusalexa112114003@/discussionsThey let beautiful moments longer.They are passionate.Like their ancestors, Greeks are still thinkers (and often big talkers).They live closer to nature than we do.For Greeks, time with family and friends always comes first... and they party like its their last day on Earth.The Romans really loved it here.As did the crusaders.So did the Venetians.Eighty percent of the country is picturesque mountains...but the beaches are absolutelyThe towns look like thisThe Mediterranean diet is from here.Greek food is so much more than souvlaki and gyros.Feta. The real, salty, creamy, crumbly stuff.Freshest. Seafood. Ever.Figs grow wild. Lots of them. Everywhere.Breakfast in Greece is something special.Coffee breaks are serious affairs.They make mighty fine beer.Athens is one of the most underrated cities in the world.Athens nightlife goes on till the wee hours every day of the week.Athens central market is a wonderland of delicious food.The Exarchia neighborhood in Athens will never gentrify and never surrender.Greeks leave paradise intact, unlike their Mediterranean neighbors.Over 1,200 stunning islands to choose from.Most of Greece is hard to reach and thats a very good thing.From May to September youll almost never see a cloud.Mykonos is summers biggest beach party.This unsuspecting island village is home to an even more debauched party scene than Mykonos.Lesbos is a real spot and its beautiful.Crete has more history and landscapes on one island than some large countries have.Mount Athos is still mysterious nearly 1,000 years later.The acoustics at Epidavros will blow your mind.Rock climbing on the island of Kalymnos is some of the best there is.Yes, yes, that famous sunset from the village Oia on the island of Santorini (Thira) is OK too.The mind-boggling monasteries at Meteora.The Greeks saved Western civilization right here.This WAS Sparta.Alexander the Great was from here.Zeus once ruled the world from up there.The oracle worked its magic up here on Mount Parnassus in Delphi....and Poseidon from down there.Icarus would have seen this beautiful place just before he crash-landed.Theater was born here.Philosophy too.Democracy was conceived here on this rock.

What more can one country wish to be Proud, as Greece is ]]>
Antiparoshttp://forum.wordtravels.com/discussion/11636/antiparos
Sun, 26 May 2013 09:24:46 +0000- Greece and CyprusGiuliapetro11636@/discussionsMany thanks!!!Giulia]]>
Where in Santorini Greece should we stay?http://forum.wordtravels.com/discussion/7653/where-in-santorini-greece-should-we-stay
Thu, 22 Sep 2011 16:14:45 +0000- Greece and CyprusMeegs7653@/discussionsTravelling to Greece after travelling to Turkey???http://forum.wordtravels.com/discussion/6544/travelling-to-greece-after-travelling-to-turkey
Tue, 22 Mar 2011 13:22:02 +0000- Greece and CyprusLiz20116544@/discussions
When I went to Turkey about four years ago I was told by someone in the airport that I wouldn't be able to go to Greece or the Greek side of any island for 5 years after travelling to Turkey. Is this true?? And also I had to pay £10 in Dalaman airport before we were allowed through, Is this still the norm? Thanks Liz.]]>
Is it safe to travel to Greece?http://forum.wordtravels.com/discussion/8737/is-it-safe-to-travel-to-greece
Fri, 15 Jun 2012 13:12:48 +0000- Greece and Cyprusjasond8737@/discussionsrenting a yaht in corfuhttp://forum.wordtravels.com/discussion/8922/renting-a-yaht-in-corfu
Tue, 14 Aug 2012 08:22:45 +0000- Greece and Cyprussanja ostojic8922@/discussionsIs Greece safe to visit during strikes?http://forum.wordtravels.com/discussion/5154/is-greece-safe-to-visit-during-strikes
Tue, 26 Oct 2010 15:17:06 +0000- Greece and CyprusAutobot5154@/discussionsgreece visa with a felony conviction?http://forum.wordtravels.com/discussion/8656/greece-visa-with-a-felony-conviction
Tue, 29 May 2012 01:09:41 +0000- Greece and Cyprustravelinggrandma8656@/discussionsThings to see and do in Patmoshttp://forum.wordtravels.com/discussion/7650/things-to-see-and-do-in-patmos
Thu, 22 Sep 2011 15:56:56 +0000- Greece and Cyprusseth7650@/discussions
My question is, what is there to do in Patmos? Is it the kind of place you stay at for several days or a week, or can one take a day trip there. Are there things to do for children in Patmos? What is the best way to get to Patmos?

Thanks for your help. If anyone can recommend family-friendly accommodation in Patmos as well, I would appreciate it.]]>
Best family resort to visit in Greece?http://forum.wordtravels.com/discussion/7662/best-family-resort-to-visit-in-greece
Fri, 23 Sep 2011 18:40:27 +0000- Greece and Cyprusjackiej21007662@/discussionsWedding venues in Santorinihttp://forum.wordtravels.com/discussion/35/wedding-venues-in-santorini
Fri, 26 Sep 2008 11:19:01 +0000- Greece and CyprusKerry Williams35@/discussions
Can you please advise the ideal location for a wedding on Santorini]]>
Working in Europe - what visas do I need?http://forum.wordtravels.com/discussion/6522/working-in-europe-what-visas-do-i-need
Sun, 20 Mar 2011 07:54:38 +0000Visa and Passportwissa846522@/discussions
on our travels. Not actually sure what countries but i just want to make sure i have all bases covered before going. Cheers]]>
Which Greek Island to Visit?http://forum.wordtravels.com/discussion/3326/which-greek-island-to-visit
Wed, 07 Apr 2010 14:50:25 +0000- Greece and Cyprushilma3326@/discussions
We want:
- to relax....so less people (touristy types), no children around is preferred.
- to be able to see a new place and experience its culture....
- something around a beach...both of us a crazy about water...
We are both from India but have been in the middle east most of our lives...this is our first real vacation in 3 years so we just want to lay back and soak in the peace and sun...
Can anybody suggest an island that we should visit as well as a hotel on that island. we would rather not go island hopping...]]>
Which Greek resort is best for a family holiday (young kids)?http://forum.wordtravels.com/discussion/1850/which-greek-resort-is-best-for-a-family-holiday-young-kids
Mon, 31 Aug 2009 09:05:39 +0000- Greece and CyprusSam Brown1850@/discussionsFerries between Greece and Alexandria?http://forum.wordtravels.com/discussion/57/ferries-between-greece-and-alexandria
Fri, 03 Oct 2008 11:54:47 +0000- General AfricaPeter.Dorgan57@/discussionsen